ZIP code in. Up to 3 vetted installers out. Nothing in between.

Shortlist Solar isn't a directory. Every inquiry is routed to a maximum of three vetted installers in your area, and the same address never re-enters the pool above that cap — even if you resubmit later. Here is exactly how the match works.

The five steps

Step 1: Enter your ZIP code

Tells us which installers actively service your area, which utility you’re on, and which state programs apply.

  • No account required — just a ZIP code and a few details about the system you want
  • Free for homeowners — you pay nothing
  • Takes under 60 seconds for most homeowners

Step 2: We match against vetted installers

Your inquiry is checked against our installer network — service area, brand accreditation if you’ve flagged one, and quality history.

  • Brand interest (Tesla, FranklinWH, Enphase, etc.) prioritizes certified installers for that brand first
  • Every installer is vetted — typically 2+ years in business with a track record of decent reviews
  • No installer sees your details until they’ve passed the vetting check

Step 3: Up to 3 vetted installers, exclusively

Your inquiry is routed to a maximum of 3 installers. The same address never re-enters the pool above that cap.

  • Maximum 3, ever — no race-to-the-bottom auctions, no follow-up spam from installer 4
  • If only 1 or 2 quality installers serve your ZIP code, we route to just those — not topped up with weaker matches
  • If a lead is genuinely uncontactable or unsuitable, it is never counted against the installer — they get nothing back but another shot at your inbox

Step 4: Installers contact you

Each matched installer reaches out directly to discuss your system, run their own site checks, and provide a quote.

  • Matched installers make first contact directly, then book a site check before quoting
  • You compare up to 3 quotes side-by-side from installers who know your area and brand of interest
  • Quotes are obligation-free — compare, ask questions, walk away if nothing fits

Step 5: You pick. They install. You stay matched.

You choose the installer that fits your home, budget, and warranty preference. Any verified incentive is applied by the installer at point of sale.

  • The federal residential credit ended for systems placed in service after December 31, 2025 — a 2026 quote should not show it
  • Verified state or utility programs, where they exist, are applied by the installer
  • If something’s wrong after install, tell us — installer quality history is tracked, and bad actors get removed

The structural rule: maximum 3 installers, ever

Most lead directories sell each inquiry to 5, 10 or 15+ installers. The auction looks like more options for the homeowner, but it rewards the cheapest installer with the most aggressive follow-up, and quality installers cannot compete on those economics. Capping at three lets installers compete on design, warranty and service instead of price.

ZIP code in, up to 3 vetted installers out. Free for homeowners, no obligation. How it works · FAQ · Federal incentives · Battery brands